Tuscany: Reasons to be cheerful – Part 3. Castel Banfi winery and Petriolo Spa and Resort

Well…. we were in Tuscany after all. That’s Chianti and Brunello and the Sangiovese grape. So we had to try some wines. So ‘Go Visit’… we did!On the recommendation of Ferdinando, the General Manager at Borgo la Banaia, we drove through the beautiful central Tuscan landscape to Castel Banfi in Montalcino. This is a converted castle on a hillside, surrounded by vineyards and the location could not be more inspiring. As is the wine and the food in the Taverna – “A charming and elegant restaurant in one of Italy’s loveliest 13th century vineyard castles” (Guide Michelin).

Interestingly, 2 brothers from Long Island, New York bought the castle and the lands and imported the high quality wine making techniques resulting in the predominant wine, Brunello, becoming one of the top Italian wines. Needless to say we had the Menu Degustazione (the tasting menu) accompanied by a selection of the wines produced on the Estate. Fabulous!

Returning to Borgo la Bagnaia we stopped off at the Petriolo Spa and Resort which is on the main road between Grosseta and Siena. This was a fairly ordinary property when viewed from the road… but go into the hotel and prepare to be awe-struck as it is actually made up of 4 descending levels built on a cliff side and overlooking the stunning Val di Farma. The views were stunning, the outdoor pools and decks hovered over the landscape and the full range of spa services – including a strong medi-spa element – were impressive.

Yet again we were impressed by the Italian spa emphasis on health and wellness and Portiolo was no exception to this.

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